National Poetry Month: Spoken Word Poetry

There is something about hearing poetry and stories read aloud that adds another dimension, or emphasis, on what that work means.

Do you think you could tell a story in three minutes? If you’re in Fort Collins tonight, the second Dimestories night at the Bean Cycle will begin at 7pm (sign up at 6:30pm). This is the perfect space to practice your storytelling skills, or listen to some great local readers.

Are you more drawn to spoken word? The 4-year anniversary of Slamagadro’s at Avogadro’s Number will happen on April 29th at 7:30pm (sign up at 7:00pm). Share your own spoken word, hear what others have been working on, or celebrate 4 years of creativity!

With all of these great opportunities to hear spoken word and flash stories, and in honor of National Poetry Month, we made a list of some of our favorite spoken word performances.

In honor of today, Jennifer Juan, “Friday the 13th”

Andrea Gibson – Angels of the Get Through (feat. Kaylen Krebsbach)

Sarah Kay and Phil Kaye, “An Origin Story”

Sarah Kay, “Private Parts”

Neil Hilborn, “OCD”

Rachel Wiley, “Gorgon”

Sabrina Benaim, “Explaining My Depression to My Mother”

Danez Smith, “Dear White America”

Alex Dang, “What Kind of Asian Are You?”

Harry Baker TED Talk, Grand Slam Poetry Champion

Doc Luben, “14 lines from Love Letters or Suicide Notes”

Shane Koyczan, “To This Day Project”

Natalie Patterson, “Is Anybody Listening”

If you’re still craving more, we found a list of the best spoken word podcasts. Let us know if you discover any new poets!